Ortiz, Jaime: Travel Grant - 2016-2017

College:

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Department:

Natural Resources

Project Title:

Effects of non-native earthworms on plant invasion in the Galápagos Islands

Project Abstract:

Invasive species are a main threat to the Galapagos Islands. Work in temperate systems suggest that introduced earthworms facilitate plant invasions, yet while various invasive earthworm species are present in Galápagos, no further ecological research on their role in plant invasions has been carried out. Furthermore, invasive species spread and control can only be fully understood and potentially successfully managed when social and economic dimensions of approaches are considered. This study aims to better understand the interactions of multiple stressors on the ecosystem and assess the socio-political, economic and ecological implications, derived from the decisions made by stakeholders.